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Respiratory Therapist, RRT
Career Insights for Respiratory Therapist
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Scorecard
Based on Pennsylvania data
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What they do
A Respiratory Therapist assists patients who have trouble breathing because of a chronic respiratory illness, trauma, or other conditions. Administers tests to diagnose breathing problems, performs treatments to help patients breathe easier, or sets up breathing equipment such as ventilators. Works closely with physicians and other healthcare workers, and may also assist in providing emergency care to patients suffering from heart attacks, drowning, or shock. Works in hospitals; may also provide care and counseling to patients in their homes.
$77,957 / year median in Pennsylvania
+11% projected growth
Job Description
Responsibilities:
+ Assess patient condition and determine treatment requirements by reading prescriptions, measuring arterial blood gases, and reviewing patient information. + Choose the best method for administering inhalants and make necessary adjustments according to physician's orders. + Assist in transporting mechanically ventilated patients and respond to emergency situations. + Maintain patient charts with identification and therapy information, and order repairs when needed. + Demonstrate respiratory care procedures to trainees and supervise students during training. + Set up and operate respiratory therapy equipment, ensuring it meets specified treatment parameters. + Monitor and adjust equipment to achieve optimal therapy results, and inspect equipment for safety and efficiency. + Evaluate medical orders and interpret clinical data to optimize patient outcomes. + Monitor patient's physiological responses to therapy, perform bronchopulmonary drainage, assist with breathing exercises, and conduct pulmonary function tests. + Consult with physicians if adverse reactions occur.Requirements:
+ Graduate of a CoARC-approved Respiratory program. + Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) license in Pennsylvania. + Basic Life Support (BLS) or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification. + Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). + Maintain NBRC certification if RRT credential was obtained after July 1, 2002.Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
+ CPR certification based on AHA standards within 30 days of hire. + Basic Life Support (BLS) or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). + Osteopathic Respiratory Care or Respiratory Care Practitioners (RCP). + Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). + Act 33, Act 34, and Act 73 FBI Clearance, all with renewal. UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. If you have any questions about the position or would like to discuss the role in more detail, our recruiter is available to assist you and provide more information to help you determine if this opportunity is the right fit for you. To connect, send an email to ogdenj2@upmc.edu and we'll be happy to schedule a time to speak with you or address any inquiries you may have.Benefits
- Bonuses/Stipends
- Dental Insurance